Burfict is expected to appeal based on the fact that he was on prescribed medication for the concussion he suffered on December 4 and a shoulder injury suffered on December 24. The appeal was denied.

The Bengals have made it clear they expect Burfict to lead them regardless of a suspension, but the contractual situation is something to keep in mind.

This will mark the third straight season the controversial linebacker has been suspended at the start of the year.

It was reported in March that the Cincinnati Bengals linebacker was facing the suspension for a failed test on December 27 of past year.

He has been a polarizing figure during his previous six seasons with the Bengals, highly productive with his play but repeatedly being disciplined for his transgressions. He sat out the first three games of 2016 for repeated violations of player safety rules, including a jarring hit to the head of Steelers receiver Antonio Brown in the 2015 playoffs. He appealed that suspension, which was reduced from five games.

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